Billie Jean King is 80 years old as of 2024. She was born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California. King started playing tennis at 11 and soon became one of the top players in the country. In 1961, she won her first major tournament, the U.S. Amateur Championships.
King turned professional in 1968 and quickly established herself as one of the best players in the world. She won her first Wimbledon singles title in 1972 and went on to win a total of 12 Grand Slam singles titles during her career. King was also a successful doubles player, winning 16 Grand Slam titles. In 1973, King defeated Bobby Riggs in a highly publicized “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match. The victory was a watershed moment for women’s tennis and helped increase interest in the sport.
King retired from competitive tennis in 1986 but remained active in the sport through her work with the Women’s Tennis Association and other organizations. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2009, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Style Of Play On The Court
King was known for her aggressive style of play and was one of the first players to use a two-handed backhand. She was also known for her serve-and-volley game, which she used to great effect against her opponents. King was also a master at using the court to her advantage, often dictating play with her strategically placed shots. Thanks to her contributions, women’s tennis is what it is today.
King’s Activism Off The Court
Billie Jean King is a former professional tennis player who is now an outspoken advocate for social and gender equality. In 1973, she defeated Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match, which was seen as a victory for women’s rights.
Since retiring from tennis, King has been active in promoting equal rights for all people, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. She has also been a vocal supporter of the LGBT community and has worked to promote understanding and acceptance of LGBT people around the world.